Depression

Hi clarissa! As a sufferer of hiatal hernia And GERD myself with sometimes IBS, I get bad anxiety and feel depressed too.

In my experience and from what I have been reading , gut problems and anxiety sometimes go hand in hand. I am not sure what causes the other though.

My advise to you is, see a doctor and don't be afraid to discuss your fears with him.

It's a tough road but so are we.

Wish you the best of luck.

You are not alone.

Hi Clarrisa, I also suffer from depression and anxiety off and on and IBS also. There is a link between brain and gut. I'm compiling a food diary at the moment to show to my doctor next week. One trigger seems to be coffee. Are you in counselling? Exercise helps as well. Hope this helps.

Hi clarissa 42245,

I'd say see a doctor too, but in the mean time, I'd highly recommend St John's wort (can't be taken if you're on the pill). I've been using it for depression for years and it works well with no side effects. Have you thought about using probiotics for IBS? I make my own water kefir (it's pretty easy to make), which has helped with my ongoing constipation.

Hi clarissa 42245,

I'd say see a doctor too, but in the mean time, I'd highly recommend St John's wort (can't be taken if you're on the pill). I've been using it for depression for years and it works well with no side effects. Have you thought about using probiotics for IBS? I make my own water kefir (it's pretty easy to make), which has helped with my ongoing constipation.

It took years before I was given this information First the saying If you're Gut's not happy Your not happy Serotonin is made in the gut When it's messed up Your brain levels lower Hence the depression I went for years not understanding this I was found to have a hiatel hernia along with a bunch of gut problems I need surgery But have had a zillion reasons that keep me from doing it Also Having a hiatel hernia actually can cause extreme tummy trouble and ruin your intestines You feel awful I was told a lot of my issues will go away once I save the date of surgery I am on depression and anxiety meds while I'm dealing with it I feel for you It's a crappy problem (pun intended) I wish you all the best in the world My thoughts are with you

1. You are so very welcome

Dear clarissa,

Depression, anxiety and panic attacks are the most common disorders these days because of the stressful life we have. Your hernia problem, in my opinion is more of a psychological problem than a physical. Staying stressful most of the time not only affects our Gastrointestinal track but can also affect other organs and can lead to multiple illnesses. We sometimes are hesitant to consult a psychiatrist but the research shows most of the people feel much better about themselves by just having a session of counseling.

Some people have a perception, that anti-psychotics cause much harm than benefit, but its not true. Your doctor will ask in detail about your condition and about your complete family history, to make sure whether you are the right person to be prescribed any anti-psychotic drug. If needed you will be referred to a Gastroenterologist.

Some suggestion I would like to give is don't think of something again and again, it will only exaggerate your thoughts and it starts building up your problem. If you have any depressing thoughts do not keep yourself isolated, go out meet people, people who care for you and who are optimistic. Correct your sleeping habits, sleep early and wake up early. For your hernia problem, avoid junk food, oily food and eat on time, do not starve yourself, drink lots of water.

Hope this helps.

Good Luck.